The Experience
From Sparkling Wine to the Romantic Rhine & Route des Vins
This trip bubbles over with names like Dom Pérignon,Veuve Clicquot, Gewürztraminer and Strasbourg. But have you ever ventured to the very spot where the kingdom of France was born? Or biked vine-latticed hills to the town where Napoleon was treated to lavish soirées? Have you ever stopped at a streetside café in 500-year-old Riquewihr or watched the red rooftops of tiny French hamlets sprout out of the lush green vineyards as you approach? Pedaled by the Rhine listening as it quietly flows alongside you? Have you ever tasted champagne in Champagne? Oh, you will. Partake in an exclusive tasting at a world-famous Maison de Champagne Hallowed ground for champagne lovers—pedal amid idyllic Dom Pérignon vineyards Bike the famed Route des Vins, hugging the peaceful Vosges foothills Revel in the beauty and tranquility of the Rhine River valley One of the most memorable meals ever—three Michelin stars at Auberge de l’Ill
Days 1-2 Reims, a historic gem where 33 French kings were crowned Perfectly manicured and world-famous vineyards, such as Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, provide an idyllic backdrop as you pedal in the Coteaux de Champagne Visit the Abbaye d’Hautvillers, where monk Dom Pierre Pérignon revolutionized the winemaking process Partake in a private tasting in Epernay, self-proclaimed capital of the region On the Avenue de Champagne, marvel at the splendid properties of prestigious négociants (wine merchants) It’s said that this avenue is the most expensive street in the world, thanks to its many miles of underground champagne cellars! Day 3 Soak up stunning views of the Rhine Valley Pedal easygoing terrain through the heart of Alsace, skirting the graceful Vosges foothills With its profusion of Alsatian-style half-timbered houses and window boxes bursting with geraniums, photogenic Obernai is a heavenly place to explore on foot No wonder Travel + Leisure states, “If you linger in one medieval town in the region, Obernai should be it.” Days 4-6 The famous Route des Vins of Alsace —glorious riding through rolling vineyards and quaint towns The splendidly restored Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, a 12th-century fortress perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Rhine River Valley Some of the most picturesque villages in France are yours to discover—wander in beautifully preserved Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé, with stunning Gothic churches and medieval fortifications Sit down to an incredible meal at Auberge de l’Ill, the only Michelin three-star restaurant you’ll find on any Backroads trip! Enjoy one last morning ride in the valley, with views of the Alsace range on one side and Germany on the other
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The Route
